Share this:

The Jets have handed the keys to the offense to Mark Sanchez. Now it’s up to the rookie to not crash.

First-year coach Rex Ryan is confident Sanchez is ready. During Wednesday’s news conference, Ryan explained his decision to name the starting quarterback now was to give all of the team’s signal-callers time to adapt to their respective roles the rest of the preseason. He was convinced on Tuesday night that Sanchez was the one.

The USC product beat out Kellen Clemens because Ryan believes Sanchez gives the Jets the best opportunity to win.

“I think he’s got everything — all of the things you look for,” Ryan said. “… Clearly, Sanchez has [arm strength]. He’s bigger than you think. He’s not a small guy. He’s a thick-bodied guy. He’s not the tallest guy of all time. He’s a little over 6’2”, but he’s a big, thick guy. I think he’s got a good grasp of our system. I think that will only get better. He’s got good movement skills. He has the talent to be an outstanding quarterback, and I also love his mental makeup.”

While Sanchez gains experience and confidence, expect the Jets to rely on their run game in the early going of the season.